As a fairly casual solo player, I’ve long shied away from PvP in New World. It’s not that I don’t think it would be enjoyable, but the prospect has always felt like a daunting investment.

To partake in PvP, you need to create a new build, acquire new gear, and master unfamiliar skills and rotations. I’m fully aware that I’ll be terrible at first, potentially dragging my team down in arena or Outpost Rush (OPR), which makes it more challenging to find PvP partners after they’ve witnessed my initial performance.

But then, last night, I thought, “Screw it,” and joined an influence race for the very first time while clad in my medium trenchant recovery gear with a GS/hatchet, typically designed for solo PvE.

And, let me tell you, it was an absolute blast.

For those of you who find yourselves in a similar position, I’m here to say: Just go for it.

I died numerous times, but no one batted an eye. Slowly, I learned not to recklessly charge into the center of the colorful death circles on the ground.

I adapted my playstyle, positioning myself on the outskirts and guarding the healers and ranged attackers. Over time, I began to notice enemy players becoming overly aggressive and venturing too far. With a bit of strategy, I pounced on them and secured the kills. These were individuals I likely would never have been able to defeat in a one-on-one encounter, but by employing a little strategy, they became easy prey with a few swings of my greatsword. If you don’t have enough damage, then just improve your attributes with New World Gold coins and try to boost your damage and strategy.

In a single session, I went from PvP track 0 to track 3.

So, I want to send a message to all the solo PvE players who’ve felt too intimidated to try PvP – take part in an influence race. Do it with the gear and build you’re currently using, whether that’s your in-game attire or even your pajamas – it doesn’t matter.

The absolute chaos in these races conceals any deficiencies in your skills or gear. Just dive in and give it a shot.

I think you’ve hit on one of the reasons why some of us who played at the game’s launch fell in love with its PvP. Prior to influence races, it had been a long time since we experienced genuine large-scale open-world PvP. There’s a significant contrast between selecting an ideal 50 for a war, desiring a strong 20 in OPR, needing two good friends for arenas, and engaging in unlimited, large-scale open-world skirmishes. What makes it even better is that it isn’t just about encountering less toxicity from teammates who have higher expectations; you could show up wearing 600 constitution heavy armor and essentially AFK on a point, and you’d still be contributing just by being there.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly agree with the original poster. Participate in influence races; they’re incredibly fun, and people will appreciate your presence, regardless of your experience or gear.